Legal basis for trade fairs
Trade fairs are a mirror of the market. In order for trade fairs to reflect the market of a particular industry, it is important that all market participants concerned have the freest possible access to trade fairs. The German legislator has taken this requirement into account by creating rules specifically for trade fairs that are intended to ensure that the market is reflected as fully as possible.
An important legal instrument for the organisation of trade fairs and exhibitions is the stipulation pursuant to § 69 of the Industrial Code. The authorisation is an administrative act by the competent authority that grants the event so-called market privileges. Market privileges are exceptions to restrictive regulations in order to take account of the special features of organising a trade fair or exhibition.
The legislator's aim is to do justice to the great importance of trade fairs and exhibitions for the economy, as trade fairs create market transparency and thus effective competition. The organiser is free to apply for a designation or not. Trade fairs and exhibitions may also be organised without a designation.
